Numerical models for the propagation period of reinforcement corrosion - Comparison of a case study calculated by different researchers

This paper describes the results of the calculations on Case Study 1 which have been performed within the activities of the EFC Task Group on modelling of corrosion of steel in concrete. These calculations have been performed by six researchers from different institutes, each of them using his favourite tools and assumptions. Case Study I was intended to obtain a preliminary impression of the corrosion models used by researchers as well as to gain information on the underlying scientific backgrounds. It has to be noted that these calculations already have been carried out in 2000 and 2001 and some of the models might have been more or less improved in the meantime. Also only selected details are described in this paper, because the discussion on the details within the EFC task group has shown, that a full scientific discussion of the models including all relevant assumptions is not possible within the framework of this paper. However, it also should be noted that it has never been intended to find the best model or to rank the models, but to get an overview and learn from each other. Finally, the participants of the EFC task group came to the conclusion, that all types of models have their advantages, depending on the complexity of the corrosion system to be simulated.